Edible energy composition with low caffeine

ABSTRACT

An energy composition includes a methylated xanthine, a choline derivative, and at least one flavorant in a sufficient amount to render the energy composition palatable. The energy composition may also include vitamins, amino acids, enzymes, preservatives, and the like.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is an US National Phase filing under 35 USC 371 of PCT Application Number PCT/US2008/083778, filed Nov. 17, 2008, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/988,599, filed Nov. 16, 2007, both of which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to edible compositions with a low caffeine concentration that provide an individual with an energy burst when consumed.

2. Background Art

Energy drinks are beverages that provide an individual with an energy surge that lasts for a variable period of time. Coffee, which is perhaps the best known energy drink, derives most of its energy enhancing properties from caffeine. Recently, there has been an increase in the number of soft drinks that also provide an energy boost that is equal to or superior to coffee. In addition, such energy drinks may also include sugar which also provides a transient increase in an individual's perceived energy levels.

Many different formulations for energy drinks exist. However, not all existing formulations are palatable to all consumers. Some of the prior art formulations possess an unpleasant taste due to the constituents. Other formulations fail to provide a sufficient energy burst. Moreover, consumers continually desire unique and healthy formulations and in particular for formulations that are low in caffeine.

Accordingly, there is a need for improved edible compositions with low levels of caffeine for providing an individual with a perceived energy boost.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention solves one or more problems of the prior art by providing an edible energy composition. The present invention provides a healthy alternative in energy and focus providing drinks, with one feature being increased availability of wholesome nutrients. In addition, a choline source (particularly useful is citicoline) is utilized and is surprisingly effective even with low levels (or even no levels) of caffeine in boosting energy levels in individuals who drink the present formulations. The energy composition of this embodiment includes a methylated xanthine at a relatively low concentration, a choline derivative, and at least one flavorant in a sufficient amount to render the energy composition palatable. Characteristically, the composition of the present embodiment includes low levels of the methylated xanthine. Advantageously, the stimulating effects of the present embodiment occur within minutes or hours of consumption. The energy composition may also include vitamins, amino acids, enzymes, preservatives, and the like.

In another embodiment, an edible energy composition comprises caffeine in an amount less than about 0.00045 g/ml; choline in an amount from about 0.0004 mg/ml to about 0.009 mg/ml, amino acids or an amino acid derivative in an amount from about 0.01 to about 0.03 mg/ml, vitamins in an amount from about 0.0003 to about 0.01 mg/ml, glucuronolactone is present in an amount from about 0.003 to about 0.01 mg/ml, and at least one flavorant in a sufficient amount to render the energy composition palatable.

In yet another embodiment, an edible energy composition comprises caffeine in an amount from about 0.00008 g/ml to about 0.0004 g/ml, citicoline in an amount from about 0.0008 g/ml to about 0.007 g/ml, amino acids or an amino acid derivative in an amount from about 0.0125 to about 0.025 mg/ml, vitamins in an amount from about 0.0010 to about 0.005 mg/ml, glucuronolactone is present in an amount from about 0.005 to about 0.009 mg/ml, and at least one flavorant in a sufficient amount to render the energy composition palatable.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT(S)

Reference will now be made in detail to presently preferred compositions, embodiments and methods of the present invention, which constitute the best modes of practicing the invention presently known to the inventors. The Figures are not necessarily to scale. However, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention that may be embodied in various and alternative forms. Therefore, specific details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for any aspect of the invention and/or as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention.

Except in the examples, or where otherwise expressly indicated, all numerical quantities in this description indicating amounts of material or conditions of reaction and/or use are to be understood as modified by the word “about” in describing the broadest scope of the invention. Practice within the numerical limits stated is generally preferred. Also, unless expressly stated to the contrary: percent, “parts of,” and ratio values are by weight; the description of a group or class of materials as suitable or preferred for a given purpose in connection with the invention implies that mixtures of any two or more of the members of the group or class are equally suitable or preferred; description of constituents in chemical terms refers to the constituents at the time of addition to any combination specified in the description, and does not necessarily preclude chemical interactions among the constituents of a mixture once mixed; the first definition of an acronym or other abbreviation applies to all subsequent uses herein of the same abbreviation and applies mutatis mutandis to normal grammatical variations of the initially defined abbreviation; and, unless expressly stated to the contrary, measurement of a property is determined by the same technique as previously or later referenced for the same property.

It is also to be understood that this invention is not limited to the specific embodiments and methods described below, as specific components and/or conditions may, of course, vary. Furthermore, the terminology used herein is used only for the purpose of describing particular embodiments of the present invention and is not intended to be limiting in any way.

It must also be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular form “a,” “an,” and “the” comprise plural referents unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. For example, reference to a component in the singular is intended to comprise a plurality of components.

Throughout this application, where publications are referenced, the disclosures of these publications in their entireties are hereby incorporated by reference into this application to more fully describe the state of the art to which this invention pertains.

The following description of the embodiment(s) is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses.

In an embodiment of the present invention, an edible energy composition is provided. The energy composition includes water and a combination of at least two stimulants. In a variation of this embodiment, the energy composition includes a methylated xanthine and a choline derivative. Examples of methylated xanthines, include but are not limited to caffeine and theobromine. Caffeine is particularly useful in the practice of the present invention. In a refinement of the present embodiment, the methylated xanthine is present in an amount from less than about 0.00045 g/ml. In another refinement of the present embodiment, the methylated xanthine is present in an amount from less than about 0.0004 g/ml. In another refinement of the present invention, the methylated xanthine is present in an amount from about 0.00008 g/ml to about 0.0004 g/ml. In still another embodiment of the present embodiment, the methylated xanthine is present in an amount from about 0.0001 g/ml to about 0.0003 g/ml.

Variations of the present invention also include a choline (e.g., choline bitartrate). A particularly useful choline is citicoline which is a well-known brain enhancer. Brain enhancers are substances that are known to improve an individual's mental acuity. In a refinement, the choline derivative is present in an amount from about 0.0004 mg/ml to about 0.009 mg/ml. In another refinement, the choline derivative is present in an amount from about 0.0008 g/ml to about 0.007 g/ml. In still another refinement, the choline derivative is present in an amount from about 0.001 g/ml to about 0.005 g/ml.

In embodiments where caffeine is present, the choline to caffeine ratio can be 10:1 or even 500:1 with a preferred range of between 10:1 to 20:1 by weight respectively. The present invention can achieve the desired effect of energy and focus by increasing the ratio of choline. In an alternate embodiment, in addition to increasing choline, the amount of niacin is decreased, or even eliminated, to what is known in the art

In a variation of the present embodiment, the energy composition further comprises one or more vitamins. Examples of such vitamins include, but are not limited to B6, B12, niacinamide, niacin, folic acid, and the like. In a refinement, vitamins are present in an amount from about 0.0003 g/ml to about 0.01 g/ml. In another refinement, vitamins are present in an amount from about 0.0001 g/ml to about 0.005 g/ml. In still another refinement, vitamins are present in an amount from about 0.0003 g/ml to about 0.004 g/ml.

As set forth above, the energy composition may include vitamin B6. In a refinement, the B6 is present in an amount from about 0.0003 g/ml to about 0.001 g/ml. In another refinement, the B6 is present in an amount from about 0.0005 g/ml to about 0.0008 g/ml. In still another refinement, the B6 is present in an amount from about 0.0006 g/ml to about 0.0008 g/ml.

As set forth above, the energy composition may include vitamin B12. In a refinement, the B12 is present in an amount from about 0.000001 g/ml to about 0.00003 g/ml. In another refinement, the B12 is present in an amount from about 0.000007 g/ml to about 0.00001 g/ml. In still another refinement, the B12 is present in an amount from about 0.000006 g/ml to about 0.00001 g/ml.

As set forth above, the energy composition may include niacin or a niacin derivative such as niacinamide. In a refinement, the niacin or a derivative thereof is present in an amount from about 0 g/ml to about 0.003 g/ml. In a refinement, the niacin or a derivative thereof is present in an amount from about 0.0001 g/ml to about 0.0007 g/ml. In still another refinement, the niacinamide or a derivative thereof is present in an amount from about 0.00006 g/ml to about 0.0001 g/ml.

As set forth above, the energy composition may include folic acid. In a refinement, the folic acid is present in an amount from about 0 g/ml to about 0.0002 g/ml. In a refinement, the folic acid is present in an amount from 0.000005 g/ml to about 0.00008 g/ml. In still another refinement, the folic is present in an amount from about 0.000004 g/ml to about 0.000009 g/ml.

The energy composition of the present embodiment includes one or more flavorants and/or sweeteners. Characteristically, there are a sufficient number of flavorants and/or sweeteners so that unpalatable tasting components will be masked. Such masking is particularly necessary for caffeine and choline. In a refinement of the present invention, the flavorants are present in an amount from about 0 g/ml to about 0.008 g/ml. In another refinement of the present invention, the flavorants are present in an amount from about 0.001 g/ml to about 0.008 g/ml. Sucralose is an example of a sweetener that may be used in the present embodiment. In a refinement, sucralose is present in an amount from about 0 to about 0.004 g/ml. In a refinement, sucralose is present in an amount from about 0.0005 to about 0.004 g/ml. In a refinement, sucralose is present in an amount from about 0.0008 to about 0.003 g/ml. In still another refinement, sucralose is present in an amount from about 0.001 to about 0.002 g/ml. Ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid (“EDTA”) may also be included in the present embodiment to improve flavor. In a refinement, EDTA is present in an amount from about 0.00002 g/ml to about 0.00009 g/ml. In another refinement, the EDTA is present in an amount from about 0.00003 g/ml to about 0.00007 g/ml. In still another refinement, the EDTA is present in an amount from about 0.00004 g/ml to about 0.00006 g/ml. In still another refinement, the EDTA is present in an amount from about 0.00002 g/ml to about 0.00003 g/ml. The energy composition also includes one or more fruit flavorants. Such fruit flavorants include, but are not limited to lemon lime flavors, orange flavors, berry flavors, high fructose corn syrup, raspberry juice concentrates, berry juice concentrates and the like.

In another variation of the present embodiment, the energy composition further comprises one or more amino acids or amino acid derivatives. Examples of amino acids or derivatives thereof, include, but are not limited to, N-acetyl L-tyrosine, L-phenylalanine, taurine, and combinations thereof. In a refinement, amino acids or derivatives thereof are present in an amount from about 0.005 to about 0.05 g/ml. In a refinement, amino acids or derivatives thereof are present in an amount from about 0.01 to about 0.03 g/ml. In still another refinement, amino acids or derivatives thereof are present in an amount from about 0.0125 to about 0.025 g/ml.

In a refinement, N-acetyl L-tyrosine is present in an amount from about 0.001 to about 0.01 g/ml. In a refinement, N-acetyl L-tyrosine is present in an amount from about 0.002 to about 0.009 g/ml. In still another refinement, N-acetyl L-tyrosine is present in an amount from about 0.003 to about 0.007 g/ml.

In a refinement, L-phenylalanine is present in an amount from about 0.001 to about 0.008 g/ml. In a refinement, L-phenylalanine is present in an amount from about 0.002 to about 0.007 g/ml. In still another refinement, L-phenylalanine is present in an amount from about 0.003 to about 0.007 g/ml.

In a refinement, taurine is present in an amount from about 0.002 to about 0.016 g/ml. In a refinement, taurine is present in an amount from about 0.005 to about 0.013 g/ml. In still another refinement, taurine is present in an amount from about 0.005 to about 0.012 g/ml.

In still another variation of the present embodiment, the energy composition of the present invention further includes additional components that reduce fatigue. Such additional components include, for example glucuronolactone. In a refinement, glucuronolactone is present in an amount from about 0.001 to about 0.012 g/ml. In a refinement, glucuronolactone is present in an amount from about 0.003 to about 0.001 g/ml. In still another refinement, glucuronolactone is present in an amount from about 0.005 to about 0.009 g/ml.

In still another variation of the present invention, the energy composition further includes one or more pH-modifying components. In one refinement, the pH-modifying components are acidulants. Typically, such pH-modifying components are inorganic acids or edible organic acids such as malic acid and citric acid. In a refinement, the pH-modifying components are present in an amount from about 0.001 to about 0.012 g/ml. In a refinement, the pH-modifying components are present in an amount from about 0.003 to about 0.0009 g/ml. In still another refinement, the pH-modifying components are present in an amount from about 0.004 to about 0.007 g/ml.

In still another variation of the present invention, the energy composition includes added fiber. Cellulose is an example of a fiber that may be used in the present variation.

In still another variation of the present embodiment, the energy composition further includes one or more enzymes. Examples of such enzymes include, but are not limited to, amylase, protease, lactase, lipase, cellulase, and combinations thereof.

In yet another variation of the present invention, the energy composition further comprises a preservative. In a refinement, the preservative is a natural preservative. Examples of useful preservatives include, but are not limited to, benzoic acid and benzoic acid derivatives such as sodium benzoate, calcium benzoate, potassium benzoate, magnesium benzoate, and combinations thereof; and sorbic acid derivatives such as potassium sorbate. In a refinement, the preservative is present in an amount from about 0 to about 0.01 g/ml. In a refinement, the preservative is present in an amount from about 0.001 to about 0.008 g/ml. In still another refinement, the preservative is present in an amount from about 0.004 to about 0.006 g/ml.

In a variation of the present invention, a composition comprising the formulations as set forth in Table 1 is provided. The compositions of Table 1 are formed by blending or mixture the components in any order. Blends or mixtures such as those in Table 1 may be introduced into a suitable liquid such as water to form a drink.

TABLE 1 Edible Energy Compositions Composition Composition Composition 1 Amounts 2 Amounts 3 Amounts (parts per (parts per (parts per Component weight) weight) weight) Caffeine  0-60  5-20  5-20 Citicoline/choline  25-500  50-400  50-400 Vitamins B6 20-60 35-45 40 B12 0.40-0.60 0.4-0.6 0.5 Niacin  0-40  0-40 5 Folic Acid 0.3-0.5 0.3-0.5 0.4 Glucuronolactone 200-600 300-500 300-500 Amino Acids N-Acetyl L-Tryosine 150-500 200-400 200-400 L-Phenylalanine 150-400 200-400 200-400 Taurine 300-800 350-700 350-700 Malic Acid 200-500 250-400 250-400 Flavorants  0-400 200-350 200-350 Preservatives sodium benzoate  0-150 25-75  0-75 potassium sorbate  0-150 25-75  0-75 Sweeteners sucralose  0-150 55-75  0-75

In a variation of the present embodiment, the compositions of the present invention are made by introducing suitable amounts of the ingredients set forth in Table 1 into a suitable edible liquid. Water is a particularly useful liquid for this purpose. It is to be appreciated that each of the components hereof are water soluble. Thus, in preparing the beverage, the ingredients are mixed together at room temperature, in any order, and the solid ingredients, which are in powdered form, are readily solubilized in the water. Those components that have more difficulty are solubilized through the utilization of chelating properties of the EDTA. Tables 2-4 provide a set of components that may be introduced into such a liquid. The amounts provided in Tables 2-4 are particularly useful to form compositions having a total final volume of about 60 ml.

In preparing the consumable beverage, dry ingredients may be mixed together and then added to liquid, each ingredient added to a container of liquid in succession, or the like. The process may be adjusted for solubility, as is known in the art. One such routine technique is to utilize EDTA to enhance solubility. Any temperature in which the ingredients do not lose significant functional or aesthetic qualities is acceptable. Processing at room temperature is preferred. Each of the components are commercially available. The energy drink composition is storage stable for extended periods at room temperature. To the extent that there is any separation or precipitation out of solution, stirring with agitation will re-solubilize the precipitate.

TABLE 2 Edible Energy Composition Amounts in 60 ml water Component Amounts (mg) Caffeine  0-60 Citicoline/choline  25-500 Vitamins B6 20-60 B12 0.40-0.60 Niacin  0-40 Folic Acid 0.3-0.5 Glucuronolactone 200-600 Amino Acids N-Acetyl L-Tryosine 150-500 L-Phenylalanine 150-400 Taurine 300-800 Malic Acid 200-500 Flavorants  0-400 Preservatives sodium benzoate  0-150 potassium sorbate  0-150 Sweeteners sucralose  0-150

TABLE 3 Edible Energy Composition Amounts in 60 ml water Component Amounts (mg) Caffeine  5-20 Citicoline/choline  50-400 Vitamins B6 35-45 B12 0.4-0.6 Niacin  0-40 Folic Acid 0.3-0.5 Glucuronolactone 300-500 Amino Acids N-Acetyl L-Tryosine 200-400 L-Phenylalanine 200-400 Taurine 350-700 Malic Acid 250-400 Flavorants 200-350 Preservatives sodium benzoate 25-75 potassium sorbate 25-75 Sweeteners sucralose 55-75

TABLE 4 Edible Energy Composition Amount in 60 ml water Component Amounts (mg) Caffeine  5-20 Citicoline/choline  50-400 Vitamins B6 40 B12 0.5 Niacinaroide 5 Folic Acid 0-5 Glucuronolactone 300-500 Amino Acids N-Acetyl L-Tryosine 200-400 L-Phenylalanine 200-400 Taurine 350-700 Malic Acid 200-400 Flavorants  0-400 Preservatives sodium benzoate  0-150 potassium sorbate  0-150 Sweeteners sucralose  0-150

While embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described, it is not intended that these embodiments illustrate and describe all possible forms of the invention. Rather, the words used in the specification are words of description rather than limitation, and it is understood that various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A complete low-caffeine edible energy composition consisting of: caffeine in an amount from about 0.00008 g/ml to about 0.0004 g/ml; a choline derivative in an amount from about 0.0004 g/ml to about 0.009 g/ml; vitamin B6; vitamin B12; folic acid; niacinamide; glucuronolactone; N-acetyl L-tyrosine; L-phenylalanine; an acidulant taurine; sucralose; and preservative.
 2. The energy composition of claim 1 wherein said caffeine is present in an amount from about 0.0001 g/ml to about 0.0003 g/ml.
 3. The energy composition of claim 1 wherein said choline derivative is present in an amount from about 0.0008 g/ml to about 0.007 g/ml.
 4. The energy composition of claim 1 wherein said choline derivative is present in an amount from about 0.001 g/ml to about 0.005 g/ml.
 5. The energy composition of claim 1 wherein said choline derivative comprises citicoline.
 6. The energy composition of claim 1 wherein said N-acetyl L-tyrosine is present in an amount from about 0.001 to about 0.01 g/ml.
 7. The energy composition of claim 1 wherein said L-phenylalanine is present in an amount from about 0.001 to about 0.008 g/ml.
 8. The energy composition of claim 1 wherein said taurine is present in an amount from about 0.002 to about 0.016 g/ml.
 9. The energy composition of claim 1 wherein said glucuronolactone is present in an amount from about 0.001 to about 0.012 g/ml.
 10. The energy composition of claim 1 wherein said niacinamide is present in an amount from about 0.001 to about 0.003 g/ml.
 11. The energy composition of claim 1 wherein said folic acid is present in an amount from about 0.001 to about 0.0002 g/ml.
 12. The energy composition of claim 1 wherein said vitamin B6 is present in an amount from about 0.0003 to about 0.001 g/ml.
 13. The energy composition of claim 1 wherein said vitamin B12 is present in an amount from about 0.000001 to about 0.00003 g/ml.
 14. A complete low-caffeine edible energy composition consisting of: caffeine in an amount from about 0.00008 g/ml to about 0.0004 g/ml; a choline derivative in an amount from about 0.0004 g/ml to about 0.009 g/ml; vitamin B6; vitamin B12; folic acid; glucuronolactone; N-acetyl L-tyrosine; L-phenylalanine; an acidulant taurine; sucralose; and preservative. 